Unspoken ( A Legolas Love Story )

2: The Dúnedain

With two dozen Rangers at his side, front and back, Legolas was accompanied along forest paths almost as dense as what the Greenwood could boast. The elf prince could feel the eyes of the Dúnedain all over his hooded back, constantly alert to his every step. Their leader, the young man by the name of Strider may have greeted him as a friend and bid him welcome, but that certainly did not mean these wary mortals intended to let their guards down. It felt strange to Legolas to be under surveillance like an unfamiliar curiosity. Clearly the trust of the Rangers would have to be won.

For the entire duration of the journey to the Dúnedain village, no one sought to engage Legolas in further conversation, and he likewise held his tongue. Grey-eyed and dark-haired Strider walked near the head of their column, shoulder to shoulder with the man Beringil. Rather than speak, Legolas took the time to observe this young human.

The man was surely no older than twenty. His beard was little more than dark stubble across his cheeks and chin, but it suited to make him appear older than he probably was. No doubt about it, there was something extraordinary in the way in which this Ranger carried himself; something fluid and proud which set him apart from the rolling gaits of his companions. Narrowing his eyes, Legolas puzzled over the strange sense of recognition he felt for the stranger, but failed to find an explanation. The mystery around this Strider grew.

As they passed out of the forest, they quickly came upon a village of thatched huts and cabins. The families of the Dúnedain came out to greet their returning patrol by the dozens; the Rangers had clearly been absent from the village for some time. Husbands' and wives' arms were thrown around each other, squeals of delight were heard as children ran towards the returning rangers to be held aloft and hugged, the communal joy was palpable. As the villagers gradually realized their Rangers had brought back such an unusual guest with them, the general hubbub of welcome shifted to more wondering undertones. Children openly pointed at the tall silver-haired elf, causing Legolas to consider the choice between smiling at them or raising an imperious eyebrow.

Smiling broadly at the children and greeting the women and men-folk of the village alike, Strider was clearly a figure both revered and beloved by these people. The Dúnedain were treating Strider like a Lord or Chieftain. This again puzzled Legolas, and he wondered that these people would readily follow one so young.

Strider turned from his welcoming committee and addressed him for all to hear. "It warms my heart to see you all again. Today we are joined by an elf, come all the way across the mountains from the Greenwood itself. Welcome Legolas to New Fornost. We are honored to have you with us, and I look forward to drawing bows with you." With a glance around at the Rangers where they still stood gathered in the village square, Strider winked. "But hopefully not too soon; we have been long in the wilderness, and could use a peaceful night's rest I think." The other Rangers grinned toothily in agreement, and Strider waved a hand at them. "Let us go now and prepare for dinner...I can smell something excellent cooking on the air even from here!"

The women laughed appreciatively, and just like that the crowd began to disperse. As Legolas's gaze glanced off the various members of this small village, a head of long dark hair caught his eye. He eyes briefly followed the owner, a petite female figure, embracing a much taller woman with strong facial features and matching dark hair that was tied back in braid. The two women turned arm-in-arm and walked towards the cabins, along with the other villagers. Hesitating, Legolas had to look to Strider for his cue. As if reading his thoughts, Strider smiled and gestured toward a small house set slightly apart from the others on the edge of the village, nearest the forest.

"Come. You are not the first elf to have paid us a visit, and we have quarters for you." When Legolas looked at him questioning, the Ranger elaborated. "The sons of Lord Elrond of Rivendell often join us in the constant task of keeping these lands clear of foul creatures. They are not here presently, and so their cabin is yours."

As Legolas followed Strider, he wondered at these strange people. King Thranduil kept his folk close, and his son closest of all. That Lord Elrond would be sending his sons north to fight alongside the Dúnedain must have extremely important implications. Legolas realized his growing sense of curiosity regarding the mystery of Strider's true identity.

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A brief  introduction to New Fornost and the Dúnedain, is it what you expected?  Do you already know who Strider is? I would love to receive your comments and please VOTE on this chapter if you enjoyed it. Each vote and comment helps the wider circulation of my story, I really appreciate them!

DEDICATION  SunnyTreasures  : For being my first 'Comment Bomber', it was such a thrill to see all your comments come trickling in and it gave me a much-needed boost after a slow Wattpad start!